Lachrymal gland. Light micrograph of a section through the lachrymal gland. The lacrymal glands release their secretions directly onto the eyeball and


Lachrymal gland. Light micrograph of a section through the lachrymal gland. The lacrymal glands release their secretions directly onto the eyeball and are thus classified as serous type exocrine glands with acini secretory elements. The acini are lined with cuboidal epithelium. The lacrimal gland is an important part of the lacrimal system that plays an essential role in maintaining the normal anatomy of the eye. The lacrymal glands secrete tears which act to lubricate and protect the cornea and eyeball from injury which may result from small particles such as dust. Tears are a watery fluid with an electrolyte content similar to that of plasma. They contain the bactericidal proteins lysozyme and lactoferrin, along with immunoglobulin A (IgA) and lipocalin (proteins which transport small hydrophobic molecules). Magnification: x400 when printed at 10 cm wide.


Size: 4829px × 3619px
Photo credit: © STEVE GSCHMEISSNER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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